Lions coach Dan Campbell honors Mike Ditka after learning of his death during press conference

Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell said he had not yet heard that former NFL coach and Hall of Famer Mike Ditka had died when a reporter asked about the news during a press conference. Campbell then recounted a meeting he had with Ditka before the 1999 NFL Draft. At the time, Campbell was a tight end prospect from Texas A&M and was invited to interview with the New Orleans Saints, who were coached by Ditka. Campbell said the interview consisted of only himself, Ditka and a room filled with cigar smoke. He described the encounter as both memorable and intimidating, noting that Ditka asked personal questions about his background and football outlook. Campbell concluded by offering thoughts and prayers to Ditka’s family and calling him a legend.